WESCT December 2023 newsletter Learn more

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Trustees

WESCT has six trustees: three are “A” trustees and elected by customers, two are “B” trustees and elected by major customers, and the “A” Trustees appoint one trustee.

William Oliver (Chair) and Cathy Prendergast (Deputy Chair)

William Oliver

William Oliver

“A” Trustee

Born and raised in Ōtorohanga and now farming in the Rangitoto district, William also has governance roles in the agricultural sector.

He believes strongly in WESCT’s responsibility for this intergenerational asset and the Trust’s role ensuring the Company runs efficiently, provides an affordable electricity supply and the highest levels of service practicable in the region’s challenging environment. He sees TLC as an economic enabler providing meaningful benefits while supporting the community energy efficiency initiatives.

Cathy Prendergast

Cathy Prendergast

“B” Trustee

Having grown up in the King Country and running a farming business there, Cathy has a strong affinity for both her local community of Arohena and the wider King Country community.  She is passionate about opportunities for provincial New Zealand.

Cathy sees WESCT as having a significant opportunity unique within intergenerational community-owned assets to support TLC deliver on its goals enabling the provision of tangible benefits both on an economic and social level to its beneficiaries and community.

Meet the other trustees …

Guy Whitaker

Guy Whitaker

“B” Trustee

Guy is a local businessman who has lived in the Waitomo district since 2004.

He is very community-focused, invested in the district’s future, and feels that the Trust plays a significant part in the progression and growth of the area, a journey he is looking forward to being a part of.  Guy believes the benefits and opportunities of TLC being locally-owned are significant to our district and looks forward to working with the Trust to keep our community asset working for all.

Janette Osborne

Janette Osborne

“A” Trustee

A qualified accountant with over 20 years corporate and government experience, Waitomo Caves-based Janette is a Chartered Member of the Institute of Directors, a small business owner and a current councillor on the Waitomo District Council.

She believes the Trust and its ownership of The Lines Company are significant community assets and feels honoured to contribute to its governance and strategy on behalf of all its beneficial owners.

Yvette Ronaldson

Yvette Ronaldson

“A” Trustee

Yvette has lived in Aria since 2014 and is passionate about rural communities.

Having worked in the energy industry for over a decade, Yvette believes The Lines Company is an important community asset that plays a significant role in our region’s economic and social wellbeing.

Erin Wirihana

Erin Wirihana

“Appointed” Trustee

Of Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngā Rauru descent, Erin is passionate about people and is heavily invested in wanting to make a difference for her iwi and community.

Erin sees The Lines Company as an important intergenerational asset that plays a significant role in contributing towards the economic and social wellbeing of the wider Maniapoto region, both as a major employer and contributor to the economic landscape within Te Nehenehenui.